3 Things You Won’t Want to Miss in Seoul (May 2026 Edition)
If you’re lucky enough to be traveling to Seoul, Korea during May there are so many limited time experiences you should absolutely take advantage of! Here are 3 things you shouldn’t miss this May in Seoul.
연등회 - Lotus Lantern Festival (May 16-17)
The 2025 Lotus Lantern Festival Parade in Seoul, Korea
I was lucky enough to experience this in 2025 and it is absolutely incredible! The entire road from Dongdaemun to Jonggak is shut down and makes way for thousands of lanterns and people to parade through the streets. There is dancing, fire breathing lanterns, beautiful hanbok, and so much more!
The parade itself is on May 16, 2026 7:00-9:30pm. It starts at Dongdaemun and finishes at Jogyesa Temple. Since it takes some time for people to walk, if you want to catch it right at the start I recommend heading towards Dongdaemun. Conversely if you’re running late or you want to catch the celebrations happening at the end, you can head towards Jogyesa Temple. Since the entire street is shut down there will be plenty of spots to stop and observe!
2. 경복궁 야간관람 - Gyeongbokgung at Night (May 13 - June 14)
Gyeongbokgung at nighttime fall 2025
Most tourists get an opportunity to wear hanbok and visit Gyeongbokgung in the daytime, but only twice a year they open it up to experience at nighttime! Having done this myself it was a totally magical experience. It felt like I was transported back in time to the Joseon Dynasty. The lighting on the buildings, traditional music playing, and even a royal processional contributed to that feeling of stepping back in time. Even if you get a chance to see this in the daytime I highly recommend stopping by for an evening visit.
For more detailed information on how to experience this, check out Gyeongbokgung at Night: a Foreigner’s Guide.
3. 야외도서관 - Seoul’s Outdoor Library (Fri - Sun
Seoul’s outdoor library along Cheonggyecheon stream
If you love to read or simply want a place to rest while taking in the beautiful spring weather, the Seoul outdoor library is the place to be! Situated along Cheonggyecheon stream or in Gwanghwamun Square they put out dozens of chairs, books, tables, and lamps for you to sit and read comfortably. You can bring your own book or find one that is provided by the library for you to borrow for a few hours.
This stays open even a little bit past dark and the little reading lamps give a warm and cozy vibe. The library organizes an entire schedule of events including performances so you might get lucky and enjoy some live music!
Spring in Seoul is absolutely magical, so if you’re lucky enough to be here for any of these experiences I highly recommend checking them out!